San Francisco and the Bay Area boast a wealth of remarkable culinary offerings, alongside a few uninspiring options. Eater editors, who dine out multiple times a week, are eager to share some of their favorite dishes they’ve discovered.
One standout dish comes from Bon, Nene in the Mission. Nestled in the heart of the neighborhood, the cozy restaurant exuded warmth and charm. It was an idyllic summer day with friends and great weather that set the stage for a memorable meal.
The mentaiko spaghetti was the dish of choice, and initial concerns about the richness of the cured cod roe quickly faded. The dish expertly balanced saltiness with a luscious butter sauce, enveloping the al dente spaghetti with each bite. This delightful meal left a lasting impression, prompting vows from the table to return soon. For anyone in the area, Bon, Nene (2850 21st Street, San Francisco) is open for lunch from noon to 2:30 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, and noon to 3 p.m. on Saturday, and dinner from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.
For barbecue enthusiasts, Breakwater Barbecue in El Granada offers a mouthwatering experience. After a surfing session at the nearby Princeton Jetty, the spacious restaurant beckoned with its country-style ambiance. The half-pound brisket plate, accompanied by moist cornbread, beans, and greens, was a savory delight. The richness of the meat combined with the sweet and rich beans and greens created a truly indulgent feast, perfect for a laid-back Friday night. Breakwater Barbecue (10151 Cabrillo Hwy, El Granada) welcomes diners from noon to 7 p.m. Thursday through Sunday.
Over at Baklavastory, the sweet scent of freshly baked pastries fills the air. Owner Tolgay Karabulut stands ready to offer samples of his pistachio and walnut baklava, inviting customer interaction. Known for its flaky layers and a syrup that enhances rather than overpowers, the pistachio baklava is a notable highlight. While a full tray might seem excessive at first, it’s perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying over several days. Baklavastory (1830 Harrison Street, San Francisco) operates from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday, making it accessible for those looking to indulge.
Meanwhile, Maritime Boat Club celebrates the beauty of summer produce alongside its seafood offerings. A recent visit revealed a dish showcasing baby corn, grilled to perfection and paired with a creamy avocado puree and a burnt ash sauce. This preparation allowed the sweet, tender kernels to shine in a way most people may never experience with canned corn. Chef Felix Santos emphasizes the importance of fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, particularly seasonal gems like baby corn. Situated inside Palihotel San Francisco (417 Stockton Street, second floor), the Maritime Boat Club is open from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, and 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
For dessert lovers, Friends and Family offers a satisfying take on strawberries and cream. The bar’s atmosphere provides a comforting retreat for patrons, with a menu that reflects thoughtfulness and creativity. The culmination of demerara sugar-studded strawberries and sour cream elevates this dish to a nostalgic yet modern twist, providing comfort in a chaotic world. Friends and Family (468 25th Street, Oakland) is open from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 5 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. Friday through Saturday, making it ideal for an evening out.
Finally, Gigi’s Cafe, located in a Burlingame office park, rewards visitors with the Fishin’ 4 Heat sandwich. This tuna salad melt, loaded with avocado, pepper jack cheese, lettuce, tomato, and jalapenos, quickly became a highlight of the menu. The unique location of Gigi’s Café adds to the experience, allowing diners to enjoy a substantial sandwich in a relatively quiet setting. The craggly Dutch crunch roll held everything together expertly, making each bite a delightful experience. Gigi’s Cafe (111 Anza Boulevard Suite 111, Burlingame) is open from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday.
Overall, the Bay Area continues to mesmerize with its diverse food scene, where each dish tells a story worth sharing. From cozy neighborhood spots to upscale culinary ventures, there’s always something new to discover, guaranteeing visitors and locals alike will never run out of delectable choices.
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